Novel Nuggets – Still Catching Up

So many outstanding reviews to write. Here are just a few more.

I was not expecting to love The Blood Trials by N. E. Davenport as much as I did, but holy hell did I. It was my favorite book read in March. In The Blood Trials, Ms. Davenport creates an exciting story that also teaches the dangers of inherent racism. I love Ikenna and her loyalty, as well as her determination to succeed; I especially appreciate her unwillingness to condone the racism that permeates her society. Simply put, I loved the story, the twists, the messaging, and the characters. The Blood Trials is a do not miss!

The Children on the Hill by Jennifer McMahon is precisely what I have come to expect from Ms. McMahon. It is yet another fantastic thriller from someone who does nothing but write excellent thrillers. While I was expecting the twist, I didn’t know exactly what it would be. As such, the ending is fabulous and not at all what I thought it would be! The Children on the Hill is a fantastic emotional rollercoaster that solidifies my love for Ms. McMahon.

The Fervor by Alma Katus is what I would consider to be a mediocre horror story. The only good thing about it is the ick factor regarding the virus’s origins. That being said, I feel there was no need to add much in the way of horror, as the internment camps were horrific enough. Ms. Katsu does not take advantage of the natural horrors and instead glosses over that part of history. What she does instead portrays a heavy-handed image of systemic racism, which is her right. Maybe she feels her readers need reminding on every single page; I did not, and the messaging got old. Ms. Katsu’s books have been more miss than hit lately, and The Fervor did nothing to correct that trend.

Magic for Liars by Sarah Gailey is a cute story about jealousy and family dynamics. It doesn’t have much staying power, but it is still enjoyable. I do so love the idea of a magical high school.

The Rebellion of Miss Lucy Ann Lobdell by William Klaber. It is an interesting story and ultimately a tragic one. I think a female author would have done more justice to Lucy’s story because it is not as if Lucy is transgender. The story needs someone who truly understands the limitations of being a woman. Still, the fact that Lucy did exist and did attempt to break the bonds of being female in antebellum America makes learning about her worthwhile.